Nov. 19, 2012

Monserrate Shirley talks with a reporter and photographer in her lawyer's office on Nov. 13. / Robert Scheer / The Star

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Monserrate Shirley and Mark Leonard are bewildered that the investigation of the fatal blast near their home in a Southeastside subdivision has become a homicide case, their attorney said this morning.

Attorney Randall L. Cable sent out an e-mail news release after midnight. Authorities announced shortly after 5 p.m. Monday that probe into the blast that killed two neighbors was now a homicide investigation.

Shirley and Leonard have cooperated with authorities, while becoming the targets of speculation on social media and bothered by news media, Cable said.

Here is the complete statement:

"Everyone is asking for a reaction to the authorities announcement that authorities are looking at events as a possible criminal investigation. My clients have instructed to issue the following comment and then ask that they be left alone.

"Monserrate Shirley and Mark Leonard watched in bewilderment the news report that the authorities are now treating the investigation as a criminal investigation as well as a causation search.

"The two remain horrified at the tragic events, destruction, and loss of lives that occurred and have been cooperating with the authorities since their return to Indianapolis over the weekend. They have cooperated fully with various investigators and agencies on multiple occasions and have answered each and every question including speculation as to whether they may have been targeted by anyone.

"They wish for the causation of this horrific and saddening tragedy to be determined. The speculation of social media has centered on various aspects of their lives targeting them in the investigation. Throughout the days since that night the two have been pursued by media constantly requesting interviews as to how they are doing, and how they feel. Assumptions by everyone have had a field day at their expense.

"They continue to cooperate with the authorities and will have no further comments."